Dementia

What is dementia?

Dementia is not a single illness but a group of symptoms caused by damage to the brain. The symptoms include loss of memory, mood changes and confusion. Dementia is caused by a number of diseases of the brain, the most common and well-known of which is Alzheimer’s disease. Vascular dementia is the second most common cause; there are other less common forms of dementia as well.

It’s important that these conditions are identified as early as possible, yet less than half of people who have dementia have been diagnosed.

Dementia mainly affects people who are older, and the numbers of people with dementia is forecast to grow as people live longer, but younger people can sometimes have dementia - this is referred to as early onset dementia.

Getting more information and help

Although there is no known cure for dementia, treatment and support can help many people to cope better with the condition and plan for the future. If you are worried about yourself or someone you know you should discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Please see the links section for further help, advice and information.

Dementia high needs

For those who have Dementia with higher needs it may be that placement in a specialist Dementia High Needs Unit is appropriate.

Dementia High Needs Units are located in a number of residential homes across the borough. These offer an environment with Dementia friendly design and specialist staff.

The eligibility decision making process for Dementia High Needs Payments involves the consideration of the following ten criteria.